Residents of an Aberdeen suburb say they fear for their safety as a result of money-saving street lighting which provides “great” conditions for thieves.
People in Bucksburn have raised concerns following a spate of thefts and attempted break-ins in the area in recent weeks, with many believing that sub-par street lighting has combined with the increasingly dark nights to create the perfect setting for crime.
And police have investigated five motorcycle thefts in the area this week.
One resident has described the lights as “awful” and complained about the new system raising security issues within the community.
He said: “These lights were installed earlier in the year, and only now can you see how bad they are.
“The older generation now feel unsafe leaving their homes in the evening and, with the dark nights coming in, it will only make it worse for them. It’s great for burglars to commit their crimes.”
An intelligent street lighting system was fitted earlier this year as part of a cost-effective scheme.
Aberdeen was one of the first cities in Scotland to implement the new LED lights which can be controlled and dimmed remotely.
The fittings were a part of Aberdeen City Council’s digital transformation – leading to additional savings on annual street lighting energy bills.
Detective Sergeant John Lumsden confirmed that the police was investigating a series of recent crimes in the suburb.
He said: “We are currently investigating a number of thefts involving motorcycles in Bucksburn which have occurred over the nights on Monday, Tuesday and in the early hours of Wednesday.
“Five motorcycles have been stolen, the majority of which have since been recovered.
“Officers are following a positive line of inquiry but we would encourage residents in the area to make sure that their properties and vehicles are as secure as they can be against opportunist thieves.”
An Aberdeen City Council spokeswoman insisted that the replacement streetlights emit a “much sharper and brighter light” than their orange sodium predecessors.
She added: “We have heard no specific complaints about this area.
“New LED streetlights are being installed around the city as part of a £9 million rolling programme of replacing old, inefficient, and expensive lighting.
“The new LEDs give out a much sharper and brighter light and directly shine onto road or footpath better as they are supposed to do rather than residents’ gardens.
“In addition, they are easier on the human eye, provide improved safety for pedestrians, and provide clearer pictures for CCTV footage.”
